Since Alan Pardew took over at Palace they have looked a more threatening side and an upset is not out of the question. The Eagles have picked up more points than City in 2015, adding further credit to the fine job Pardew is doing in South London.

Manchester City desperately need a win in this one as they look to prolong the title race for at least another week. Chelsea could be a staggering nine points clear by the time City kick off on Monday night, with a game in hand.

City won the reverse fixture 3-0 at the Etihad in December. But you have to say Palace look a much better team than the one that took to the field on that occasion. The home crowd will look to play a part and City have lost their last two on the road so this is perfectly poised.

It has been a disappointing season for the champions, and a loss on Monday night would all but guarantee Chelsea the title.

But then again, if City play like they are capable of, this could be very one-sided and Manuel Pellegrini will be desperate to see a positive performance from his players.

Team News

Crystal Palace will be without Jerome Thomas, Frazier Campbell and Marouane Chamakh, who are all sidelined through injury. Mile Jedinak is suspended, while Joe Ledley and Jordan Mutch are both doubts but should make the squad.

Manchester City face concerns over Yaya Toure and James Milner, who are both doubts but should be available for selection. Toure should start alongside Fernando in midfielder, while Wilfried Bony is expected to continue to partner Sergio Aguero up front.

Key Points

Crystal Palace’s last five: L/W/L/W/W

Manchester City’s last five: W/L/W/L/W

Key Stat: Crystal Palace haven’t beaten Manchester City at home in the Premier League since April 1995 and will be looking to end a 20-year wait on Monday night.

Key Player: David Silva – The Spaniard is always at the heart of everything City do going forward and makes them tick. Expect him to be influential in the final third.

Score Prediction

Crystal Palace 1-2 Manchester City – City cannot afford to drop points here as they continue to fight for the title. They should edge it, taking their run of victories over Palace to eight in a row in all competitions.